This post is sponsored by Walker Art Center
Walker Art Center in Minneapolis is perfect for a family-friendly day out during the summer! It’s designed to captivate visitors of all ages: from interesting and thought-provoking art exhibitions to interactive outdoor activities, the Walker Art Center has curated a variety of offerings to create a memorable experience for families. Here’s a look at the highlights!
Skyline Mini Golf
A perennial family favorite, the Walker’s annual Skyline Mini Golf course has returned. Skyline Mini Golf offers a fun and artistic twist on traditional mini-golf! The course features ten artist-designed putt-putt holes and one-of-a-kind views of downtown Minneapolis. It’s an enjoyable activity for the whole family, with tickets priced at $12 for adults, $10 for youth aged 7-18, and free for children 6 and younger. Skyline Mini Golf is open during gallery hours, ensuring plenty of opportunities to play.
Free First Saturday
Oh, how we *love* Free First Saturday! This is a monthly event where the Walker opens its doors to all with no admission charge. Held on the first Saturday of each month, this event includes gallery and Minneapolis Sculpture Garden tours, art-making activities, and much more. Each month features a unique theme and activities, making it fresh and exciting for each visit. The event runs from 10 AM to 5 PM, with art-making sessions available from 10 AM to 3 PM. This is truly a wonderful way to introduce your family to all that the Walker has to offer!
Sensory Friendly Sunday
Sensory Friendly Sunday is a thoughtful initiative designed for visitors with sensory processing differences, autism spectrum disorder, or developmental disabilities. Held on the second Sunday of each month, this event offers extended, free morning gallery hours from 8 AM to 11 AM. The museum adjusts gallery lighting and sound, provides fidgets and earplugs, and hosts sensory-friendly art activities to create a welcoming environment. During the summer, participants can also enjoy a free round of Skyline Mini Golf.
Free Thursday Nights
Every Thursday evening from 5 PM to 9 PM, the Walker’s galleries are free and open to all. Free Thursday Nights feature gallery tours and art activities, along with a special series called Summer Social, which includes both indoor and outdoor artistic programming. Lounge on the hillside with other arts-minded visitors and enjoy the natural beauty as well as the galleries. This event typically attracts a slightly older audience, including teens and young adults, but it remains welcoming to visitors of all ages.
Friday Art-Making in the Garden
For a delightful outdoor art experience, join the Walker’s Friday Art-Making in the Garden sessions. Held every Friday afternoon from 10 AM to 1 PM in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden, this free activity invites families to explore their creativity in a beautiful, natural setting. The program runs until August 30.
Family Memberships
Families who frequently visit the Walker Art Center should consider a family membership. Memberships offer benefits such as free adult admission every time you visit, making it an excellent value for regular visitors.
Make the Walker Art Center your destination for art, fun, and family-friendly adventures in Minneapolis! For a comprehensive guide to all summer activities at the Walker Art Center, visit the Summer at the Walker page on their website
